Decoding A Cough: What Does all that Hacking Mean - and What Helps
2/5/2024
Respiratory illnesses continue to rise with coughs being a common overlapping symptom among them all. Decoding the characteristics of a cough, including its duration, sound and accompanying symptoms, can help patients understand what is going on and how to treat it.
Most people are typically contagious the first few days after the initial respiratory infection, according to the CDC. However, a cough can linger. A temporary, acute cough typically lasts less than three weeks and is often associated with viral infections such as a common cold or the flu. But, a cough that lasts longer - anywhere from four to eight weeks – is typically a sign of unresolved inflammation from conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, long COVID, or other serious conditions.
“While bothersome, a cough is the body’s defense mechanism for getting rid of irritants from your lungs,” said Sarah Waling, DO, Pediatrician at Crestwood Medical Group. “However, if you or your child develops other symptoms, such as fatigue, high fever, chills, or wheezing, it’s time to call your doctor.”
Dr. Waling suggests these remedies to alleviate discomfort:
- Adults can drink tea with local honey: Honey acts as a natural suppressant and contains antioxidants to help lower inflammation in your throat. Honey is appropriate for children over the age of 1 year old.
- Try a saline rinse or steam shower: Moisture and warmth can open breathing passages and thin mucus to help expel it out. If your child is an infant, clean your baby’s nose with a suction bulb to help them breathe better.
- Sleep with the head elevated: Propping the head up at a higher angle can help drain mucus and relieve sinus pressure.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can also thin mucus and flush out irritants. Water is recommended for older children and breast milk, formula, or infant electrolyte solutions for infants.
- Lastly, take over-the-counter medication: Cough suppressants are good for adults and can help by controlling the reflex that makes someone cough and provide temporary relief. Cough drops for school-aged children can help soothe a throat or cough.
“We’re still in the thick of a contagious cold and flu season, so now is the time to take extra precautions,” adds Dr. Waling. “Wash your hands, cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, frequently clean surfaces and, most importantly, stay home if you are feeling unwell to prevent infections from spreading to other people.”
If your child’s cough is persistent and lasts more than two weeks, talk to their pediatrician or primary care provider about any underlying issue such as asthma or allergies that may be preventing them from healing. And seek emergency care if you or your child’s cough is accompanied by blood or pink phlegm, difficulty breathing, or tightening in the chest. Also seek emergency care if your child’s cough is accompanied by decreased wet diapers or urinating and refusing to drink fluids to stay hydrated.
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